Homelessness is On the Rise in Rural and Suburban Areas

This new figure is an increase from 23% in 2007. The amount of families in shelters has also risen, from 473,000 in 2007 to 517,000 for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2008.

"'This report dispels the myth that homelessness is exclusively an urban problem,' says HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. 'Today's housing crisis is putting particular pressure on families with children who are living in suburbs and rural areas.'

The HUD report is the first with full-year figures for more than one year. It is based on information collected in 222 communities, including one-day tallies of people living on the street and in shelters as well as annual figures on those in shelters or transitional housing."